Preserving Benton County's Heritage Since 1949
Explore records, photographs, and stories from the people and places that shaped our community.
Search Our DatabaseWelcome to the Benton County Historical Society & Museum
Preserving the stories, artifacts, and heritage of Benton County, Minnesota since 1949.
Upcoming Event
Stories Among the Stones: A Lantern Tour of the Benton County Cemetery — Part II
October 15, 2026 • 5:30 PM • Benton County Cemetery
Join us for Part II of our popular lantern tour of the Benton County Cemetery — uncovering stories of those who came before us, including victims of the 1886 Cyclone and early settlers. Post-tour social hour with refreshments and a viewing of our authentic 1880s funeral coach.
Sauk Rapids, Benton Co., Minn.
📅 Today in History
United States
• 1648 First US labor organization forms (Boston Shoemakers)
• 1898 American flag raised in Puerto Rico
Minnesota
• The Lake Superior agate became Minnesota’s state gemstone in 1969.
• The pink and white lady’s slipper became Minnesota’s state flower in 1902.
Benton County
• The earliest European settlement in Benton County was a trading post at Watab established in 1848 by David Gilman.
• Another influenza outbreak hit Benton County in early 1919.
📷 Picture of the Day
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Proud Community Partners
